Mountain Mail 12/5/19
Dear Parents,
Though we have communicated often enough, this is the first as a blog in some time. I really wanted ta chance to share photos of the month and to thank you for such unwavering support as we have navigated fires and rain.
As I take my time emerging on Saturday morning, drinking my tea in my pajamas, it will be a bitter sweet moment. Canceling the Winter Festival was the only option, and I am relieved not to be worrying about how we would pull it off in potential rain, but I will also miss spending those moments of collective fun with all of you, our alumni and our friends. I hope we can find a date in the Spring to gather and celebrate together.
These traditional events, when we get to know each other and work together, are at the core of building community here at TMS. With out them we must find new ways to coalesce and feel the camaraderie that is at the foundation for our success.
Thankfully, in these final days of the Calendar year we do have some further opportunities to celebrate together!
In the tradition of a Christmas Carol - but without the bah humbug - here is our take on the past present and future!
Remember - don’t get stuck in the past - the future is waiting for you!!
Past - fun and games!
Halloween
Around school
Field Trip Fridays - at the Getty and the beach!
Recycling - in Santa Barbara and Simi Valley
Present - Last two weeks of school - 2019 style!
Friday - tomorrow.
We will be staying on campus and using the time to do a show and tell of our Sound Suit progress. This is a perfect opportunity for students to hear constructive feedback and see what else is needed before the art show in two weeks.
In the afternoon we will collectively watch the movie Maiden.
Drop off and pick up at school 8:15 and 3:30 respectively. Carpool as usual. Bring your own lunch.
Tuesday 10th - PPO meeting at 9:30am Room 10
We will once again welcome potential parents to our school to find out more about the program and to view the school in action.
If you know anyone who is interested, please make sure to let them know.
Wednesday 11th - Thankfully we get a normal day on Mesa!
Drop of at school at 8:15 or Topanga carpool at 8:40. Pick up at school at 3:30 or Pine Tree at 3:15.
Please make sure your child knows where they are to go. Lunch, snack and full water bottles.
Thursday 12th @ 7pm - My old fashioned idea of a group chat!
Please join me at my home as we gather and find support, ideas and I am sure some fun, in navigating the world of electronics and raising healthy, happy children.
RSVP please!
Monday 16th - Clothing Swap and Festive fun. 3:30pm in Room 10
A favorite part of the now cancelled Festival is the clothing swap that the students organize. It is a tradition not to give up on!
To that end we will be having a Clothing Swap at school and getting into the spirit with holiday refreshments and some good times.
Clean out your closets and then send in any clothes before that morning. Then come and grab yourself a whole new wardrobe in time for the holidays!
Clean good condition clothes only please. All items not claimed will be taken to a thrift shop in time for others to benefit for the holidays.
Wednesday - 18th - Student Gift Exchange
Your child may have come home taking about “Secret Santa” and you may be wondering what this is all about! On our last school day of the calendar year we traditionally celebrate with a gift exchange.
In this gift exchange students secretly pull each other’s names from a bag and then gift that particular student. Gifts can be homemade or bought but there is a $15 limit and it is more about the thought and effort that goes into it than anything else. They all know who they are gifting - please help them keep it a secret, its the best part of the fun!!
Wednesday 18th @ 6pm Art Show and End of Year Holiday Party
Canoga Park Youth Arts Center. 7222 Remmet Avenue, Canoga Park.
This yearly tradition is a fan favorite! Gather to see the children's creations and enjoy good company and a festive atmosphere as we say goodbye before we head off on Winter Break - and of course see the end to yet another calendar year. Look out for a Sign Up Genius for this potluck event.
Winter Break Thursday December 19th - Friday January 3rd.
FuturE
School resumes Monday January 6th.
I am sure your children have shared with you that Marcelle will not be back with us in the new year. That sweet new baby has worked her magic and Marcelle will be staying home and putting her energy into caring for her family. We send them all our love and complete understanding.
That does mean however that we are looking for a mid-term replacement English teacher. If you have any inspirations, please let us know. TMS is an incredibly special place to work and we know the right person to join our family is out there waiting for the opportunity.
Upon our return students will find themselves in new groups, approaching new units, as well as all the excitement that music immersion brings. This trimester titled Impact: We the People, is filled with meaningful exploration. Students will be making Podcasts, learning about social movements in the US, focusing on homelessness in Los Angeles, and so much more. Music for all will include Songwriting, Dance, and Music History and Appreciation classes, along with electives to suit every passion. I am looking forward to sharing details with you about this trimester in the new year.